THE George Mernagh Tattersalls Horse Trials marked a full circle moment for the connections of Lisnamuck What A Cracker, who won the Hoofprints Innovations EI100 (J) there with Ana Goodrich in the saddle. Carole Young’s traditionally-bred Irish Sport Horse by the Connemara stallion Cheeky Bobby Sparrow delivered a 28.5 dressage test and followed it up with a double clear to take his second consecutive win at the level.

Back at the last running of the international event in Tattersalls, ‘Bailey’ was due to be ridden in the CCI2*-L by Ana’s mother Gemma Carson, with then seven-year-old Ana in attendance as chief supporter. Bailey was unexpectedly spun at the first trot-up however, and was later found to have damaged a tendon. Gemma successfully rehabilitated him from that injury and, when he returned to full health, the combination finished 10th in the CCI2*-L at Millstreet in 2021 before Bailey went home to be ridden by his owner, Carole.

Fast forward almost five years, and a chance conversation between Gemma and Carole resulted in Ana taking the ride earlier this season.

The combination has gone from strength to strength and, after three wins so far this year, they are currently sharing the lead in the Equijump Ltd EI100 (J) points league with Laragh Byrne and LA Saurian Cavalier.

“I loved what I saw when Ana started riding him,” said Gemma. “He loves her and tries so hard for her. For Carole and I, their success has blown our minds, and it’s a sweet story that they have grown up together. We have fantastic plans for next year and there’s great excitement, but obviously our main focus is just keeping everybody on the road.”